Kangana Ranaut will essay the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in an upcoming political drama. The actress says the yet-untitled film is not a biopic and has also revealed that many prominent actors will be a part of the upcoming project.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
"Yes, we are working on the project and the script is in final stages. It is not the biopic of Indira Gandhi, it is a grand period film, to be precise a political drama that will help my generation to understand (the) socio-political landscape of current India," said Kangana, in a statement released by her office. 
 
"Many prominent actors will be part of this film and of course I am looking forward to playing the most iconic leader that we have had in the history of Indian politics," said the actress. 
 
Kangana added that "the film is based on a book", although she did not elaborate on which written work. 
 
The actress&nbsp;will produce the film that will feature Emergency and Operation Blue Star. 
 
Director Sai Kabir, who worked with Kangana earlier in "Revolver Rani" will write the story and screenplay, and also direct the project. 
 
The period film will be mounted on a very big scale, and have actors portraying Sanjay Gandhi, Rajeev Gandhi, Morarji Desai, and Lal Bahadur Shashtri among other prominent figures. 
 
Kabir flew to Bhopal where the actress is currently shooting for "Dhaakad" and has already done a few sittings with the actress. The screenplay is ready, according to sources.

Kangana Ranaut will essay the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in an upcoming political drama. The actress says the yet-untitled film is not a biopic and has also revealed that many prominent actors will be a part of the upcoming project.

Kangana Ranaut will essay the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in an upcoming political drama. The actress says the yet-untitled film is not a biopic and has also revealed that many prominent actors will be a part of the upcoming project. "Yes, we are working on the project and the script is in final stages. It is not the biopic of Indira Gandhi, it is a grand period film, to be precise a political drama that will help my generation to understand (the) socio-political landscape of current India," said Kangana, in a statement released by her office. "Many prominent actors will be part of this film and of course I am looking forward to playing the most iconic leader that we have had in the history of Indian politics," said the actress. Kangana added that "the film is based on a book", although she did not elaborate on which written work. The actress will produce the film that will feature Emergency and Operation Blue Star. Director Sai Kabir, who worked with Kangana earlier in "Revolver Rani" will write the story and screenplay, and also direct the project. The period film will be mounted on a very big scale, and have actors portraying Sanjay Gandhi, Rajeev Gandhi, Morarji Desai, and Lal Bahadur Shashtri among other prominent figures. Kabir flew to Bhopal where the actress is currently shooting for "Dhaakad" and has already done a few sittings with the actress. The screenplay is ready, according to sources.

Kangana Ranaut to play Indira Gandhi in political period drama

Vijay Diwas - 'You surrender or we wipe you out': When Sam Manekshaw threatened Pak in 1971 Bangladesh liberation war

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country.

The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-unveils-fundamental-reforms-for-taxpayers-faceless-appeals-to-start-from-september-25-320127">PM Modi unveils 'fundamental reforms' for taxpayers; faceless appeals to start from September 25</a>

BJP sources noted on Friday that Modi's total term, including prime ministerial and chief ministerial, is more than 18 years and 306 days. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/faceless-assessment-taxpayer-charter-has-come-into-force-from-today-pm-modi-320130">Faceless assessment, taxpayer charter has come into force from today: PM Modi</a>

India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru aces the list of longest tenure as PM as he served for 16 years and 286 days.&nbsp;

Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandi is next in this list with a term of 15 years and 350 days. Both Gandhi and Nehru never became chief ministers of any Indian state.&nbsp;

As far as the head of an elected government is concerned, West Bengal's Jyoti Basu and Pawan Kumar Chamling of Sikkim are ahead of Modi in this race.

Meanwhile, since Modi's term second term began last year, it is most likely that his longest-serving record is expected to strengthen.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country. The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country. The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years. Also read | PM Modi unveils 'fundamental reforms' for taxpayers; faceless appeals to start from September 25 BJP sources noted on Friday that Modi's total term, including prime ministerial and chief ministerial, is more than 18 years and 306 days. Also read | Faceless assessment, taxpayer charter has come into force from today: PM Modi India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru aces the list of longest tenure as PM as he served for 16 years and 286 days. Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandi is next in this list with a term of 15 years and 350 days. Both Gandhi and Nehru never became chief ministers of any Indian state. As far as the head of an elected government is concerned, West Bengal's Jyoti Basu and Pawan Kumar Chamling of Sikkim are ahead of Modi in this race. Meanwhile, since Modi's term second term began last year, it is most likely that his longest-serving record is expected to strengthen.

Narendra Modi now longest-serving non-Congress prime minister

The Mont Blanc glacier in the French Alps yields more and more secrets as it melts -- this time a clutch of newspapers with banner headlines from when Indira Gandhi became India's first and so far only woman prime minister in 1966.

The copies of Indian newspapers the National Herald and The Economic Times were probably aboard an Air India Boeing 707 that crashed on the mountain on January 24, 1966, claiming 177 lives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indira-gandhi-imposed-emergency-to-save-her-pms-chair-union-minister-ravi-shankar-prasad-308542">Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM's chair: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad</a>

The trove of around a dozen newspapers was found last week by Timothee Mottin, who runs a cafe-restaurant, La Cabane du Cerro, perched at an altitude of 1,350 metres (4,455 feet) near the Chamonix skiing hub.

"They are drying now but they are in very good condition," Mottin, 33, told AFP. "You can read them."

The modest cafe is around 45 minutes by foot from the Bossons glacier where the plane named after the Himalayan peak of Kangchenjunga mysteriously crashed.

Mottin said he was lucky to discover the papers when he did because the ice in which they were encased for nearly six decades "had probably just melted".

Once the papers have dried out, they will join a growing collection of found items from the crash that Mottin has put on display at the Cabane du Cerro.

He said he preferred to share his finds with visitors rather than "hide them in an attic waiting to sell them" -- something he said had become a "business" for less scrupulous climbers.

Human remains were found in the area in 2017 that could have come from the 1964 crash or that of another Indian plane, the Malabar Princess, that came down in the same area in 1950.

The most stunning find occurred in 2013, that of a box of precious stones -- emeralds, sapphires and rubies worth between 130,000 and 246,000 euros ($145,000-$275,000) -- thought to have come from the 1966 crash. 
&nbsp;

The Mont Blanc glacier in the French Alps yields more and more secrets as it melts -- this time a clutch of newspapers with banner headlines from when Indira Gandhi became India's first and so far only woman prime minister in 1966.

The Mont Blanc glacier in the French Alps yields more and more secrets as it melts -- this time a clutch of newspapers with banner headlines from when Indira Gandhi became India's first and so far only woman prime minister in 1966. The copies of Indian newspapers the National Herald and The Economic Times were probably aboard an Air India Boeing 707 that crashed on the mountain on January 24, 1966, claiming 177 lives. Also read | Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM's chair: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad The trove of around a dozen newspapers was found last week by Timothee Mottin, who runs a cafe-restaurant, La Cabane du Cerro, perched at an altitude of 1,350 metres (4,455 feet) near the Chamonix skiing hub. "They are drying now but they are in very good condition," Mottin, 33, told AFP. "You can read them." The modest cafe is around 45 minutes by foot from the Bossons glacier where the plane named after the Himalayan peak of Kangchenjunga mysteriously crashed. Mottin said he was lucky to discover the papers when he did because the ice in which they were encased for nearly six decades "had probably just melted". Once the papers have dried out, they will join a growing collection of found items from the crash that Mottin has put on display at the Cabane du Cerro. He said he preferred to share his finds with visitors rather than "hide them in an attic waiting to sell them" -- something he said had become a "business" for less scrupulous climbers. Human remains were found in the area in 2017 that could have come from the 1964 crash or that of another Indian plane, the Malabar Princess, that came down in the same area in 1950. The most stunning find occurred in 2013, that of a box of precious stones -- emeralds, sapphires and rubies worth between 130,000 and 246,000 euros ($145,000-$275,000) -- thought to have come from the 1966 crash.

Mont Blanc glacier brings reminiscences of India's history

Blueprint to  peace: 47 years of India-Pakistan Simla Agreement

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975.

The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977.

The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister.

He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking.

True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news.

Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted.

The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats.

Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977. The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister. He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking. True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news. Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted. The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats. Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Revisiting the Emergency: When Iron Lady's dark move galvanized the Opposition

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution. It was also a poor reflection on the status of the Congress party which failed to resist the supreme leader and her son’s encroachment on the democratic principle of the Constitution. Emergency not only broke the myth of the constant rule of Congress at Centre but also broke traditional strongholds of the party&nbsp;in north India. The effects of emergency could still be felt today by the leaders it spawned. 
 
Let’s recount the most important development which impacted Indian politics.

Emergency mainstreamed RSS in Indian politics. After the brief experience of 1967 when non-Congress governments came up in various north Indian states by taking help from Jan Sangh, RSS still remained at the political periphery.&nbsp;The close cooperation of RSS with other opposition parties&nbsp;gave rise to the idea of combined opposition. This idea made it possible for VP Singh to become the Prime Minister for a brief time as he received support from both Left and BJP.

Emergency also spawned new leaders. It also pushed old leaders to centre stage. Morarji Desai went on to become the Prime Minister at the age of 81. Vajpayee and Advani, from RSS background, became ministers. New leaders emerged both at the Central&nbsp;and state level. Mulayam Singh, Laloo Prasad Yadav, Nitish Kumar, George Fernandes, Ram Vilas Paswan and Sharad Yadav broke into national politics. Vajpayee and Advani went on to become PM and deputy Prime Ministers. Mulayam, Nitish and Laloo served both as chief ministers and Central ministers and also laid foundations of regional parties in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh respectively. It also impacted Congress. Many Congress leaders nurtured by Sanjay Gandhi came to dominate UPA 1 and 2. Sanjay Gandhi’s men had a little say in Rajiv Gandhi’s Congress but Sonia Gandhi brought back the old-timers into the system.

Another impact of emergency was the injection of activism in journalism. It also spawned a number of journalists who actively opposed Indira Gandhi. Many were jailed and many more lost jobs. The net impact of emergency was that anti-government reporting acquired political heft. It continued till 2014. Only after 2014, political heft of anti-government reporting came down.

Emergency also led to the foundation of BJP in the 1980s. With the failure of the Janata experiment, leaders associated with RSS formed a new party called BJP. When born, it chose to wall a centrist path until Advani decided to change it for good. After two back to back debacles in Lok Sabha election, Advani took a political turn and got the BJP married to hard Hindutva politics officially. BJP went on to form government in 1996 and by 2014 became the dominant party of India, displacing Congress from both Centre and many states.

Another impact of Emergency, in the long run, was political marginalisation of socialist politics in India. India repeatedly witnessed socialist not being able to run governments. It discredited them in public. The experiment of 1977, 1989 and 1996 showed that socialist parties cannot run governments on their own. Subsequently, the socialist block got divided, a part of it aligned with BJP led NDA and rest chose to become part of the Congress-led UPA. After 1996, the dominance of socialist politics was finished at the Centre.

Emergency also raised questions on the nature of Indian film industry. Barring few voices, many film stars remained silent. This continues till today where very few actors take strong political positions on important issues.

Emergency also&nbsp;tarred the legacy of Congress forever. The party which fought for India’s independence suspended democratic rights. Till today, the party&nbsp;grapples with the legacy of Congress despite admitting in public that it was a mistake.

Another impact of Emergency was the downfall of the Congress in north Indian states. Congress was able to retain south in the 1980s and was wiped out in the north. By 1989, Congress became irrelevant in Bihar and UP which accounts for 120 seats in Lok Sabha. It also showed every Indian how the absence of dissent in the party can compromise with the functioning of a nation. In absence of dissent in Congress, Indira got away with Emergency. It is the biggest lesson. Even the opposition was not convinced of a victory against Indira but people voted her out. It is a lesson, India&nbsp;must remember that dissent within the party and outside the government, in form of a strong opposition with a strong and neutral press, is an essential prerequisite for a functional democracy.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution.

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution. It was also a poor reflection on the status of the Congress party which failed to resist the supreme leader and her son’s encroachment on the democratic principle of the Constitution. Emergency not only broke the myth of the constant rule of Congress at Centre but also broke traditional strongholds of the party in north India. The effects of emergency could still be felt today by the leaders it spawned. Let’s recount the most important development which impacted Indian politics. Emergency mainstreamed RSS in Indian politics. After the brief experience of 1967 when non-Congress governments came up in various north Indian states by taking help from Jan Sangh, RSS still remained at the political periphery. The close cooperation of RSS with other opposition parties gave rise to the idea of combined opposition. This idea made it possible for VP Singh to become the Prime Minister for a brief time as he received support from both Left and BJP. Emergency also spawned new leaders. It also pushed old leaders to centre stage. Morarji Desai went on to become the Prime Minister at the age of 81. Vajpayee and Advani, from RSS background, became ministers. New leaders emerged both at the Central and state level. Mulayam Singh, Laloo Prasad Yadav, Nitish Kumar, George Fernandes, Ram Vilas Paswan and Sharad Yadav broke into national politics. Vajpayee and Advani went on to become PM and deputy Prime Ministers. Mulayam, Nitish and Laloo served both as chief ministers and Central ministers and also laid foundations of regional parties in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh respectively. It also impacted Congress. Many Congress leaders nurtured by Sanjay Gandhi came to dominate UPA 1 and 2. Sanjay Gandhi’s men had a little say in Rajiv Gandhi’s Congress but Sonia Gandhi brought back the old-timers into the system. Another impact of emergency was the injection of activism in journalism. It also spawned a number of journalists who actively opposed Indira Gandhi. Many were jailed and many more lost jobs. The net impact of emergency was that anti-government reporting acquired political heft. It continued till 2014. Only after 2014, political heft of anti-government reporting came down. Emergency also led to the foundation of BJP in the 1980s. With the failure of the Janata experiment, leaders associated with RSS formed a new party called BJP. When born, it chose to wall a centrist path until Advani decided to change it for good. After two back to back debacles in Lok Sabha election, Advani took a political turn and got the BJP married to hard Hindutva politics officially. BJP went on to form government in 1996 and by 2014 became the dominant party of India, displacing Congress from both Centre and many states. Another impact of Emergency, in the long run, was political marginalisation of socialist politics in India. India repeatedly witnessed socialist not being able to run governments. It discredited them in public. The experiment of 1977, 1989 and 1996 showed that socialist parties cannot run governments on their own. Subsequently, the socialist block got divided, a part of it aligned with BJP led NDA and rest chose to become part of the Congress-led UPA. After 1996, the dominance of socialist politics was finished at the Centre. Emergency also raised questions on the nature of Indian film industry. Barring few voices, many film stars remained silent. This continues till today where very few actors take strong political positions on important issues. Emergency also tarred the legacy of Congress forever. The party which fought for India’s independence suspended democratic rights. Till today, the party grapples with the legacy of Congress despite admitting in public that it was a mistake. Another impact of Emergency was the downfall of the Congress in north Indian states. Congress was able to retain south in the 1980s and was wiped out in the north. By 1989, Congress became irrelevant in Bihar and UP which accounts for 120 seats in Lok Sabha. It also showed every Indian how the absence of dissent in the party can compromise with the functioning of a nation. In absence of dissent in Congress, Indira got away with Emergency. It is the biggest lesson. Even the opposition was not convinced of a victory against Indira but people voted her out. It is a lesson, India must remember that dissent within the party and outside the government, in form of a strong opposition with a strong and neutral press, is an essential prerequisite for a functional democracy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Children of Emergency

June 25 is an important date in Indian history. It is on this date in 1975 that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the 'Emergency' which began one of the darkest periods in India.

45 years of Emergency: Recalling the time when fundamentals rights were scrapped

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices.

"Today we recall the draconian day of 25 June 1975, when the then Congress Government led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices," said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

"During the emergency period, prominent leaders like JP Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chandrashekhar, LK Advani, and George Fernandes were arrested and tortured," he added.

The Union Minister elaborated saying "even media was not spared and censorship was imposed. Even judiciary was not spared, those whose judgment Congress party found uncomfortable were superseded. Even the unmarried people were forcibly sterilized."

Ravi also slammed the slogan of "India is Indira and Indira is India," which was started by the then Congress leader Debakanta Baruah.

"Debakanta Baruah coined the sycophantic slogan, "India is Indira and Indira is India." Back then, there was no limit to such sycophancy, he further said.

"Our leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Ananth Kumar, Sushma Swaraj, JP Nadda, and I opposed it and fought against the emergency as student leaders," he added.

Lastly, he slammed the functioning of the Congress party, saying that whoever goes against the party leader Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party.

"To date, Congress party has continued with its 'darbar' culture where Gandhi family calls all the shots at the party. Even to this day, whoever suggests anything against Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party," he added.

On 25 June 1975, late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had announced a national emergency.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices. "Today we recall the draconian day of 25 June 1975, when the then Congress Government led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices," said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. "During the emergency period, prominent leaders like JP Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chandrashekhar, LK Advani, and George Fernandes were arrested and tortured," he added. The Union Minister elaborated saying "even media was not spared and censorship was imposed. Even judiciary was not spared, those whose judgment Congress party found uncomfortable were superseded. Even the unmarried people were forcibly sterilized." Ravi also slammed the slogan of "India is Indira and Indira is India," which was started by the then Congress leader Debakanta Baruah. "Debakanta Baruah coined the sycophantic slogan, "India is Indira and Indira is India." Back then, there was no limit to such sycophancy, he further said. "Our leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Ananth Kumar, Sushma Swaraj, JP Nadda, and I opposed it and fought against the emergency as student leaders," he added. Lastly, he slammed the functioning of the Congress party, saying that whoever goes against the party leader Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party. "To date, Congress party has continued with its 'darbar' culture where Gandhi family calls all the shots at the party. Even to this day, whoever suggests anything against Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party," he added. On 25 June 1975, late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had announced a national emergency.

Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM's chair: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad

January 19 in history: India's first female prime minister, electric light system advancements and a lot more!

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-pm-narendra-modis-foreign-policy-pivot-262873">Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday paid tributes to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 102nd birth anniversary.

"Tributes to our former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on her birth anniversary," tweeted Prime Minister Modi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Tributes to our former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on her birth anniversary.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1196625932280139776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister of the country from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tributes to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 102nd birth anniversary. "Tributes to our former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on her birth anniversary," tweeted Prime Minister Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tributes to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 102nd birth anniversary. "Tributes to our former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on her birth anniversary," tweeted Prime Minister Modi. Tributes to our former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on her birth anniversary. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 19, 2019 × Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister of the country from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984.

PM Modi pays tribute to Indira Gandhi on her 102nd birth anniversary

Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former President Pranab Mukherjee and several other Congress leaders paid tribute to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary at Shakti Sthal in New Delhi.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former President Pranab Mukherjee and several other Congress leaders paid tribute to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary at Shakti Sthal in New Delhi. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee & Former Vice President Shri Hamid Ansari pay their respects on the 102nd birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi at Shakti Sthal. #IndiasIndira pic.twitter.com/ZeeoJN0tAK — Congress (@INCIndia) November 19, 2019 × "On her birth anniversary, we pay homage to India's first female Prime Minister, the Late Smt Indira Gandhi. Her will and determination led our country to great heights. Her contributions to India's national security, economy & foreign policy will always be cherished," Congress tweeted. Delhi: Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi, Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Former President Pranab Mukherjee pay floral tribute to Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary. pic.twitter.com/AUuiYH12Dj — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2019 × Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was the second-longest-serving Prime Minister after Nehru and was well-known for path-breaking economic and social reforms, including the nationalisation of banks. She also abolished privy purses of the erstwhile princely states. Indira Gandhi, who was hailed as one of the tallest world leaders, was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence on Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. (With inputs from ANI)

Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh pay tribute to Indira Gandhi on birth anniversary 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary.

Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary."

Amit Shah also paid tribute to the former prime minister while flagging off 'RunForUnity'&nbsp;marathon at Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

"Today, we pay tributes to former PM Indira Gandhi," he said.

Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984.

She was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence in Akbar Road on October 31, 1984.

This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi had ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter in the holy shrine.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary. Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary. Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary." Amit Shah also paid tribute to the former prime minister while flagging off 'RunForUnity' marathon at Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. "Today, we pay tributes to former PM Indira Gandhi," he said. Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence in Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi had ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter in the holy shrine.

PM Modi, Shah pay homage to Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary

Wing Commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/aamir-khan-on-shah-rukh-khan-quitting-rakesh-sharma-biopic-lets-wait-until-he-makes-an-announcement-193391">Rakesh Sharma</a> is part of India's space folklore after he became the country's first man in space way back in April 1984 aboard Russia's Soyuz T-11.

India's then prime minister late Mrs Indira Gandhi spoke to Rakesh Sharma on that historic day, lauding his effort, asserting that it was a "historic endeavour which would make India space conscience and inspire our young people to be more adventurous."

"Your work has great significance for increasing humankind's knowledge of the mysteries outer space and its direct bearing on the planet's ecosystem and the other information we need, we want to use this knowledge for peaceful purposes and for all the people of the world."

Watch: In conversation with Rakesh Sharma, Ex-Wing Commander, IAF &amp; only Indian who travelled space

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/in-conversation-with-rakesh-sharma-ex-wing-commander-iaf-only-indian-who-travelled-space-248175/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I was glad to hear that you are feeling well, mentally, physically," former PM Indira Gandhi told Rakesh Sharma live on national television.

"We equally admire the hard work put in by Wg Cdr Ravish Malhotra who has been a good companion to you during the arduous years of preparation. Your flight is eloquent testimony of the all-round cooperation between India and the Soviet Union."

"The government of India appreciates the Soviet Union's generous collaboration in this field. You are far in distance with us but our hearts and thoughts are with you," the former PM said as the nation watched.

"I will ask just a few questions," the prime minister said. "Wg Cdr Sharma you had a tough training on Earth and a similar sort of atmosphere was created just like in space, now you are actually in space, so are you feeling just like you feel on Earth?

To this, Rakesh Sharma replied: "First of all, as a citizen of India, I would like to thank you and my crew members thank you as well."

"Just like you said, my training and Ravish Malhotra's was very difficult. Now we understand this training was needed, Sharma said, adding, "we docked without any difficulty, we felt as if we were in a simulator, this shows our tough training was essential."

How does India look from space," India's prime minister asked Rakesh Sharma.

"I can say without any hesitation "sare jahan se aacha"(best in the world)."

Indira Gandhi with a smile then asked, "How are you feeling? Do you want to give us some message or to your family?"

"I am doing well, my health is fine, we are eating a lot, in fact when we docked the crew members prepared food on the table, there were flowers probably made of plastic."

"We had hot food," Rakesh Sharma added. "There is no problem at all over here, we are all feeling good, just like you are watching us right now."

"Your work has a lot of importance, a lot of mysteries would be revealed which will have a direct effect on our environment here on Earth, we will get other information as well, we want this knowledge is used for world peace."

"Wing Commander Ravish Malhotra also worked very hard, we appreciated his effort as well. Your flight is a beautiful example of India-Soviet friendship."

"The people of India are watching you and listening to our conversation, our people, India's Parliamentarians and especially me are hoping that you have a successful mission."

"Best of luck, Jai Hind," the Indira Gandhi said while closing the live conversation.

Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma is part of India's space folklore after he became the country's first man in space way back in April 1984 aboard Russia's Soyuz T-11.

Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma is part of India's space folklore after he became the country's first man in space way back in April 1984 aboard Russia's Soyuz T-11. India's then prime minister late Mrs Indira Gandhi spoke to Rakesh Sharma on that historic day, lauding his effort, asserting that it was a "historic endeavour which would make India space conscience and inspire our young people to be more adventurous." "Your work has great significance for increasing humankind's knowledge of the mysteries outer space and its direct bearing on the planet's ecosystem and the other information we need, we want to use this knowledge for peaceful purposes and for all the people of the world." Watch: In conversation with Rakesh Sharma, Ex-Wing Commander, IAF & only Indian who travelled space × "I was glad to hear that you are feeling well, mentally, physically," former PM Indira Gandhi told Rakesh Sharma live on national television. "We equally admire the hard work put in by Wg Cdr Ravish Malhotra who has been a good companion to you during the arduous years of preparation. Your flight is eloquent testimony of the all-round cooperation between India and the Soviet Union." "The government of India appreciates the Soviet Union's generous collaboration in this field. You are far in distance with us but our hearts and thoughts are with you," the former PM said as the nation watched. "I will ask just a few questions," the prime minister said. "Wg Cdr Sharma you had a tough training on Earth and a similar sort of atmosphere was created just like in space, now you are actually in space, so are you feeling just like you feel on Earth? To this, Rakesh Sharma replied: "First of all, as a citizen of India, I would like to thank you and my crew members thank you as well." "Just like you said, my training and Ravish Malhotra's was very difficult. Now we understand this training was needed, Sharma said, adding, "we docked without any difficulty, we felt as if we were in a simulator, this shows our tough training was essential." How does India look from space," India's prime minister asked Rakesh Sharma. "I can say without any hesitation "sare jahan se aacha"(best in the world)." Indira Gandhi with a smile then asked, "How are you feeling? Do you want to give us some message or to your family?" "I am doing well, my health is fine, we are eating a lot, in fact when we docked the crew members prepared food on the table, there were flowers probably made of plastic." "We had hot food," Rakesh Sharma added. "There is no problem at all over here, we are all feeling good, just like you are watching us right now." "Your work has a lot of importance, a lot of mysteries would be revealed which will have a direct effect on our environment here on Earth, we will get other information as well, we want this knowledge is used for world peace." "Wing Commander Ravish Malhotra also worked very hard, we appreciated his effort as well. Your flight is a beautiful example of India-Soviet friendship." "The people of India are watching you and listening to our conversation, our people, India's Parliamentarians and especially me are hoping that you have a successful mission." "Best of luck, Jai Hind," the Indira Gandhi said while closing the live conversation.

India looks beautiful from Space: First Indian in Space Rakesh Sharma told Indira Gandhi in 1984

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-meets-two-relatives-of-sonbhadra-violance-victims-237252">Sonbhadra politics</a> and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-priyanka-gandhi-spends-night-at-mirzapur-guest-house-says-will-not-leave-without-meeting-families-237228">Priyanka Gandhi</a>’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe.

In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party.

Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune.

Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent.&nbsp;

The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units.

Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh.

On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019.

Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport.

But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally.

It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. &nbsp;Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s.

It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress.

There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results.

The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for?

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort. But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for Priyanka Gandhi’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe. In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party. Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune. Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent. The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh. In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units. Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019. Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport. But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally. It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s. It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress. There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results. The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for? (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

A Belchi moment for Congress party? No; good job by Priyanka? Yes

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched'&nbsp;from them.

"When Emergency was imposed, resistance against it was not limited to the political arena or politicians; the movement was not curtailed to the confines of prison cells. There was an outrage in the conscience of one and all," Prime Minister Modi said.

"In normal life, one realises the importance of democratic rights when someone snatches them. During Emergency, every citizen felt that something that belonged to them has been snatched away. If what was snatched had never been enjoyed by that person, ever, it had to eventually precipitate into a painful inner agony," he added.

He went on to add, "Perhaps, nowhere else in the world had citizens voted, without bothering about other rights and requirements, just for the sake of saving democracy. And the country witnessed one such election in 1977."

This was not the first time when the Prime Minister talked about the Emergency period.

On June 25, Prime Minister Modi, he made a veiled attack on late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for imposing emergency in the 1970s and said that the soul of the country was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power.

"Today is June 25. On the night of June 25, the soul of the country was crushed. In India, democracy does not come into existence from the pages of the Constitution; it has been our soul for decades. That soul was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power," he had said while replying to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha.

June 25 marked the day when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had declared a state of Emergency in the country from 1975 to 1977. The for a 21-month period saw media censorship, restrictions on civil rights and forced mass sterilisation of men.&nbsp;

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched' from them.

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched' from them. "When Emergency was imposed, resistance against it was not limited to the political arena or politicians; the movement was not curtailed to the confines of prison cells. There was an outrage in the conscience of one and all," Prime Minister Modi said. "In normal life, one realises the importance of democratic rights when someone snatches them. During Emergency, every citizen felt that something that belonged to them has been snatched away. If what was snatched had never been enjoyed by that person, ever, it had to eventually precipitate into a painful inner agony," he added. He went on to add, "Perhaps, nowhere else in the world had citizens voted, without bothering about other rights and requirements, just for the sake of saving democracy. And the country witnessed one such election in 1977." This was not the first time when the Prime Minister talked about the Emergency period. On June 25, Prime Minister Modi, he made a veiled attack on late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for imposing emergency in the 1970s and said that the soul of the country was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power. "Today is June 25. On the night of June 25, the soul of the country was crushed. In India, democracy does not come into existence from the pages of the Constitution; it has been our soul for decades. That soul was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power," he had said while replying to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha. June 25 marked the day when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had declared a state of Emergency in the country from 1975 to 1977. The for a 21-month period saw media censorship, restrictions on civil rights and forced mass sterilisation of men.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discusses emergency in Mann Ki Baat

On the 44th of the Emergency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several BJP leaders recalled the period as "one of the darkest chapters in India's history" and marked the day as when "democracy was strangulated".

India Watch: The story of emergency in India

Watch India Watch, 26th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 26th June 2019

Lashing out at the BJP rule at the Centre, Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday claimed that the country reeled from a “super Emergency” in the past five years.

India Watch: Mamata's double standards on emergency

The Indira Gandhi Government laid out some ground rules for the journalists across the country and they were told about certain “guidelines” to follow. Three years ago, Kalpana Sharma, former Editor of Himmat said by the time they came to know what exactly was happening in the nation, many leaders and activists were in jail.

India Watch: How media functioned during emergency

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

"Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election&nbsp;said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat.

"It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. &nbsp;Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned.&nbsp;

He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked.&nbsp;

Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people. "Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat. "It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. "I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned. He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked. Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't insult voters' sentiment by blaming EVM: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha

In a stinging attack on the Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-insult-voters-sentiment-pm-narendra-modi-in-rajya-sabha-230575">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat.

"My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat. This is not a healthy sign in a democracy," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My friends in the Congress: 
 
They have not been able to digest victory. 
 
They have not been able to accept defat. 
 
I do not consider this to be a healthy sign in a democracy: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1143805335452303360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Slamming Congress during his speech, PM Modi said that we should appreciate how our electoral processes have improved over the years. In 1950s polling process took a long time to complete. Violence and booth capturing were common in some places. Now, the news is about rising voter turnout. This is a healthy signal.

On one nation, one election issue, PM Modi asked the opposition parties to come forward and present their views. He said that it may not become a reality but spreading negativity even before having a discussion on the matter is not right. He cited examples of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh where Assembly and general elections are held simultaneously.

On Jharkhand lynching incident, PM Modi said that he is too pained by the killing of a youth. He said that the accused should be dealt with a firm hand. Responding to Congress leader Azad's jibe that Jharkhand has become a factory of lynching, he said, "It is wrong to blame entire Jharkhand for the lynching."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The lynching in Jharkhand has pained me. It has saddened others too. 
 
But, some people in the Rajya Sabha are calling Jharkhand a hub of lynching. Is this fair? Why are they insulting a state. 
 
None of us have the right to insult the state of Jharkhand: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1143809912297807872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

PM Narendra Modi said that the people of the country rejected opposition's negative politics. He said that opposition leaders mocked the government's schemes like clean India, Make in India, toilet etc.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat. "My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat. "My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat. This is not a healthy sign in a democracy," he said. My friends in the Congress: They have not been able to digest victory. They have not been able to accept defat. I do not consider this to be a healthy sign in a democracy: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 26, 2019 × Slamming Congress during his speech, PM Modi said that we should appreciate how our electoral processes have improved over the years. In 1950s polling process took a long time to complete. Violence and booth capturing were common in some places. Now, the news is about rising voter turnout. This is a healthy signal. On one nation, one election issue, PM Modi asked the opposition parties to come forward and present their views. He said that it may not become a reality but spreading negativity even before having a discussion on the matter is not right. He cited examples of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh where Assembly and general elections are held simultaneously. On Jharkhand lynching incident, PM Modi said that he is too pained by the killing of a youth. He said that the accused should be dealt with a firm hand. Responding to Congress leader Azad's jibe that Jharkhand has become a factory of lynching, he said, "It is wrong to blame entire Jharkhand for the lynching." The lynching in Jharkhand has pained me. It has saddened others too. But, some people in the Rajya Sabha are calling Jharkhand a hub of lynching. Is this fair? Why are they insulting a state. None of us have the right to insult the state of Jharkhand: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 26, 2019 × PM Narendra Modi said that the people of the country rejected opposition's negative politics. He said that opposition leaders mocked the government's schemes like clean India, Make in India, toilet etc.

Congress can't accept defeats, not a healthy sign in democracy: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage&nbsp;to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975.

"India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India's democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset," he tweeted with a short video. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. 
 
India’s democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset. <a href="https://t.co/vUS6HYPbT5">pic.twitter.com/vUS6HYPbT5</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1143362212335144960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Home minister Amit Shah also recalled how people were deprived of their fundamental rights during the Emergency. "It was on this day in 1975 that democracy of the country was killed for political interests. Millions of patriots were tortured in their fight to restore democracy. I salute all the fighters," Shah tweeted. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
1975 में आज ही के दिन मात्र अपने राजनीतिक हितों के लिए देश के लोकतंत्र की हत्या की गयी। देशवासियों से उनके मूलभूत अधिकार छीन लिए गए, अखबारों पर ताले लगा दिए गए। लाखों राष्ट्रभक्तों ने लोकतंत्र को पुनर्स्थापित करने के लिए अनेकों यातनाएं सहीं। 
 
मैं उन सभी सेनानियों को नमन करता हूं। <a href="https://t.co/XzRc4vEdJS">pic.twitter.com/XzRc4vEdJS</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1143361005583552513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Defence minister Rajnath Singh said Emergency was one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. "The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution," he tweeted. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. 
 
On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1143345301756846080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile lashing out at BJP, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter and said that while it was the anniversary of Emergency imposed in 1975, the country is going through "super emergency" for the past five years.

"Today is the anniversary of the Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a 'Super Emergency'. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country," Banerjee tweeted. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Today is the anniversary of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Emergency?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Emergency</a> declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a ‘Super Emergency’. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1143336759205306368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Emergency was imposed in India from June 25, 1975 to March 21, 1977.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975. "India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to people who resisted the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975. "India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India's democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset," he tweeted with a short video. India salutes all those greats who fiercely and fearlessly resisted the Emergency. India’s democratic ethos successfully prevailed over an authoritarian mindset. pic.twitter.com/vUS6HYPbT5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2019 × Home minister Amit Shah also recalled how people were deprived of their fundamental rights during the Emergency. "It was on this day in 1975 that democracy of the country was killed for political interests. Millions of patriots were tortured in their fight to restore democracy. I salute all the fighters," Shah tweeted. 1975 में आज ही के दिन मात्र अपने राजनीतिक हितों के लिए देश के लोकतंत्र की हत्या की गयी। देशवासियों से उनके मूलभूत अधिकार छीन लिए गए, अखबारों पर ताले लगा दिए गए। लाखों राष्ट्रभक्तों ने लोकतंत्र को पुनर्स्थापित करने के लिए अनेकों यातनाएं सहीं। मैं उन सभी सेनानियों को नमन करता हूं। pic.twitter.com/XzRc4vEdJS — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 25, 2019 × Defence minister Rajnath Singh said Emergency was one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. "The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution," he tweeted. The declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975 and the incidents that followed, mark as one of the darkest chapters in India’s history. On this day, we the people of India should always remember the importance of upholding the integrity our institutions and the Constitution. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 25, 2019 × Meanwhile lashing out at BJP, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter and said that while it was the anniversary of Emergency imposed in 1975, the country is going through "super emergency" for the past five years. "Today is the anniversary of the Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a 'Super Emergency'. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country," Banerjee tweeted. Today is the anniversary of the #Emergency declared in 1975. For the last five years, the country went through a ‘Super Emergency’. We must learn our lessons from history and fight to safeguard the democratic institutions in the country — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 25, 2019 × Emergency was imposed in India from June 25, 1975 to March 21, 1977. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah remember those who resisted Emergency; Mamata Banerjee lashes out at BJP

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-cant-forget-dark-days-of-emergency-indias-soul-was-crushed-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230357">We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha</a>

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navys-marcos-commandos-board-indian-vessels-in-persian-gulf-to-ensure-safety-230339">Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety</a>

After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-military-intelligence-to-show-us-drone-was-iranian-airspace-russia-230296">Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia</a>

Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-complains-of-chest-pain-hospitalised-in-mumbai-230288">Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai</a>

Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-life-and-legacy-of-michael-jackson-remembering-the-king-of-pop-on-his-tenth-death-anniversary-230233">In pics: The life and legacy of Michael Jackson-Remembering the 'King of Pop'&nbsp;</a>

Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.&nbsp;

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships. Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday. Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update. In pics: The life and legacy of Michael Jackson-Remembering the 'King of Pop' Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leaders-never-mentioned-narasimha-rao-and-dr-manmohan-singh-centred-only-around-gandhis-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230332">PM Narendra Modi</a> said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

In his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha</a>, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Replying to 'Motion Of Thanks On the President's Address' in Lok Sabha <a href="https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg">https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1143483751512473601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy.

Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family.&nbsp;

Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime.

(With inputs from PTI)

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. In his maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.” Replying to 'Motion Of Thanks On the President's Address' in Lok Sabha https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2019 × The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy. Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family. Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao. The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime. (With inputs from PTI)

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

In a sharp attack on the Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house.

Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh."

Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,".

In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity.

PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development.

"I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added.

The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making.

"I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.&nbsp;

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house. Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh." Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,". In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity. PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development. "I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added. The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making. "I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.

Congress leaders never mentioned Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh; centred only around Gandhis: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

Watch 'India Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on the world's biggest democratic nation's exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis.

Watch: India Watch, 13th June 2019

Watch: India Watch, 12th June 2019

Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi are arriving in the state of Kerala on Friday for short visits after the Lok Sabha elections.Watch full visit to know more.

PM Modi to offer prayers at Kerala temple, Rahul Gandhi to visit Wayanad

A Brief Look At Operation Blue Star 35 Years Later.

Gravitas: What Was Operation Blue Star?

Former PM Indira Gandhi had ordered Operation Blue Star. This was Indian Army's biggest operation within India. Operation Blue Star was started on 1st June 1984. Operation lasted for one week and ended on 8th June. In this Golden Temple was taken over by terrorists. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: 35 Yrs Of Operation Blue Star

indira-gandhi

Indira Gandhi, News on Indira Gandhi, stories on Indira Gandhi, articles on Indira Gandhi, Indira Gandhi stories at Wion, Indira Gandhi news, Indira Gandhi latest news

indira gandhi